Windows File Sharing
Recent problems with the Nimbda
Virus sweeping around student computers on the ResNet (see: Virus Protection) bring up an interesting
topic: File Sharing. Let's talk about file sharing.
Disclaimer:
This document is targeted for Whitman College students interested in sharing
files with each other as peers on ResNet. This is not meant to be a tutorial.
This is by no means intended as recommendation, endorsement or encouragement
to begin or continue using Windows File Sharing. Please contact WCTS for
information regarding officially supported network file storage.
DO's and DONT's (Things That Make Me Cringe)
Don't share your entire hard drive.
DO: Create a separate "shared" folder and share just that.
Why give away your housekeys when all the mailman needs is to open
your mailbox?
Don't give away write access freely.
DO: READ-ONLY access is ALL YOU NEED to allow someone to download.
Unless, of course, you really wanted Joe P. Ervert to replace that
only copy of your 200 page thesis with a picture of his naked girlfriend.
Do NOT leave the Administrator password (or any other password)
blank.
DO: Use passwords.
Otherwise, you might as well leave your housekeys on the doorstep
with a BIG NOTE that says, "Make yourself at home!"
Quick How To's
How to tell if you are sharing folders?
Open Windows' Explorer (or My Computer). Any folders or drives have a
hand under them like a waiter
holding a tray? That means it's being shared (or "served up").
How to change settings on a shared folder?
Open Windows' Explorer, select the shared folder you want to modify.
From the menu choose "File" then "Properties" and select the "Sharing"
tab. This is not meant to be a tutorial, but here are some screenshots
from my own computer that might help.
Need More Information?
Well, "I'd tell ya but I'd havta kill ya." Actually, it can get quite complicated
and risky. If you don't feel comfortable figuring this stuff out and doing
your research, the truth is, maybe you should leave this to a professional.
That said, here's some useful websites to get you up to speed:
- Tutorials
- General Background Information
- Technical Documents (from Microsoft)
- And in case you have nothing better to do...
Give Up? Need Professional Help?
- Have you tried bribing your geeky friends yet? (Seriously, they like
the attention.)
- If you're in a Residence Hall, check with your Hall staff to find
out who your ResNet tech person is, or see the Olin Computer Lab Consultant
to schedule a ResNet visit.
- Call the WCTS Helpdesk at 527-4976 and they'll be happy to point
you in the right direction or maybe even answer your question over the
phone.
Have fun (and safe) file sharing!
Paea LePendu
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